Relationships

A lot has happened today that has led me to talk about relationships. 

First I got overstepped by my mom this morning. I was actually greatful. Isabelle was having a tantrum meltdown and would not listen to me. She finally got through to her-whatever it is that she said, worked. 

I can only argue for so long and it's not worth my time after a while. Even though she's nearly five, you can only say the same thing to someone so many times. If they want to listen, they will-the first time. 

After all that, we had big hugs and it was done and over. In the past. Gone. Moving forward. 

My home was a pit today. I knew I had four days of laundry staring me down-literally:

And kids destroying everything in their paths:

We worked as a team though! How can we get our kids to listen if we beat them down with orders and demands?

 I find myself at the end of each day wondering what I could have done better; was I too harsh with my voice and choice of words; did I remember to take my crazy pill (for real! Ha); am I a good mom? I want to have the best relationship with my kids, to be open and honest and not keep hem from anything that they want to do and/or pursue. 

Iz had a second melt down tonight, so instead of yelling at her, I approached her in a new way. I made her sit and draw her feelings. Worked. Instantly! Finally. Something I can feel good about! Then we hugged and took some pictures.

Some things I have learned in the past couple of days: I cannot change my kids, I cannot change my husband, parents or anyone else. If I want change, I have to change myself. Nobody can do it but me. There are so many different resources out there-people, books, higher powers, whatever it be-the only one person who can change me is myself. I have been and will continue to remind myself of that.

I have a better relationship with Ryan, we work through his intense work schedule. We have to. In order to survive, he sacrifices time with us to provide for us. Not many people see that or know that-but he busts his ass to make our family work and happy, and I love the crap out of him for that. 

Our kids are happy, and have the best bond with him in the best way they know how, and we make the most of his one day off. 

Relationships are everywhere. Some are strong and some are weak...the strong you know when you see it, as well as the weak. It's important to focus on the good and not dwell on the weak-it only brings you down and life won't go far. 

So as for myself and my family, we will keep on doing what we do and go forward from there. 

Phew!!

Until tomorrow!!